Area 51 has long been a source of fascination – yet the US government only officially recognized its existence in 2003. The top secret US Air Force facility drew attention during its Cold War-era aircraft testing and has been at the center of several extra-terrestrial conspiracy theories including that the moon landings were staged and that there’s a lab run by aliens.

It’s still operational and strictly off-limits, though those curious to know more can visit the nearby Alien Research Center, a metal hangar filled with curios and gifts.

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